1930 Doubled Die Reverse WDDR-001

Description

Frequently referred to as "The Five-Legged Buffalo" variety, the 1930 WDDR-001 Buffalo Nickel was cataloged by the Wexler Team and carries cross-references as CONECA 1-R-IV and Cherrypickers' FS-05-1930-801 (017.5). A Class IV spread to the southeast shows prominently on the left front leg, with additional doubling visible on the neck, the right front leg, E PLURIBUS UNUM, and FIVE CENTS. The "five-legged" nickname derives from the strong southeast-displaced extra left front leg, which creates the visual impression of an additional limb on the bison — a dramatic and immediately recognizable doubling that has made this one of the most famous Buffalo Nickel varieties. Die markers progress across three obverse stages (none noted for any stage) and three reverse stages: Stage A features a raised lump of metal on the lower left rear leg; Stage B develops a triangular die gouge next to the T in CENTS; and Stage C shows a die chip at the front of the bison's head. The reverse marker progression from the raised metal lump to the triangular gouge and then the head die chip documents deterioration spreading across the bison design. James Earle Fraser designed the Buffalo Nickel, featuring a composite Native American portrait on the obverse and a bison (reportedly modeled after Black Diamond from the Central Park Zoo) on the reverse. Struck at the Philadelphia Mint in 1930, the coin is composed of 75% copper and 25% nickel, weighing 5.0 grams with a 21.21 mm diameter. The Cherrypickers' listing at FS-05-1930-801 and the evocative "five-legged" designation have made this variety one of the most actively pursued Buffalo Nickel die varieties, commanding significant premiums across all grades.

Attribution History

• Discovered by Sam Lukes Cross References: CONECA: 1-R-IV, Cherrypickers: FS-05-1930-801 (017.5) Comments: This variety is frequently referred to as “The five-legged Buffalo” variety.
• CONECA: 1-R-IV, Cherrypickers: FS-05-1930-801 (017.5) Comments: This variety is frequently referred to as “The five-legged Buffalo” variety.; Wexler Variety ID: 1930 5¢ WDDR-001
• Expert attribution by Wexler Team

External References